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Born With It?

Is competitiveness a genetic trait that you either have or don't, that can be cultivated or not?  If you don't have it, can you ever truly know the will to win, to be the fastest, the best, at almost any cost?

Watching the U.S. Open over the past two weeks has me wondering.  Especially yesterday's match between Federer and Djokovic - two talented, fierce tennis players, neither one relenting for a moment.  Then there was Kim Clijsters - who seemed to gracefully pummel her opponent with nary an inkling of sympathy.  Watching that one-sided match, I felt badly for Zvonareva, even though she was lacking decorum and sportsmanship throughout her breezy defeat.

I've always loved sports, tennis especially.  I like to compete and test myself, but I don't feel the will to win at all costs.  I know many people who do.  Is it not in me?  Can it be taught effectively?

What do you think?

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hmmmmm
September 12, 2010 at 6:31 AM
Anonymous said…
Game on.
September 13, 2010 at 7:30 AM
Unknown said…
I feel the same way you do - I want to win - but not at all costs. And - I would have never called myself competitive, until six years ago, when I stepped onto a tennis court. But, I often have sympathy for my opponent - no killer instinct here.
September 19, 2010 at 4:42 PM
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